Romans 3:20-24
New International Version (NIV)
20 Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.
Righteousness Through Faith
21 But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness is given through faith in[a] Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
A discussion http://gnli.christianpost.com/video/homosexual-forgiveness-michael-brown-3469 came to my attention regarding the attention and attitude of the church toward homosexuals.
God doesn't look at each person as a stereotype as we do. Each sin wreaks havoc on others, such as greed, lust, adultery, gossip, judging... We all do wrong in God's eyes. We are each held to a standard by the people around us. We are to lift each other up in love. We need share in our wrongs and help each other become better people by letting God speak through us.
Galatians 6
Doing Good to All
1 Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves.
In one year I went through emotional abuse, a death, change of job, change of home, and pregnancy. I went to a pastor and asked if I could unload and ask for help. Through the whole discussion (if it could be labeled as that) the pastor only asked, "... and how did that make you feel?" Just like people, pastors can be insensitive and judgmental. However, a church is made up of more than just the pastor. Two people can continue the life of a church because of their faith. They understand wholly, they have no use on this earth unless Christ shines through them. That light shines to others and unless others open themselves to this light, they have no use on this earth.
Galatians 5:13-15
New International Version (NIV)
